Assistant Fire Chief James Middlebrook, 40, on August 5, 2014 at 2100hrs, died from injuries sustained when the roof of a burning commercial storage building collapsed on him and another firefighter. According to reports, the other firefighter sustained a broken ankle and minor burns. Investigation into the cause of the fire remains under investigation by the State of Indiana Fire Marshal’s office.
Indiana Gov. Mike Pence issued a statement after learning of Middlebrook's death. . .
"I was saddened to learn of the death of New Carlisle Assistant Fire Chief Jamie Middlebrook, who lost his life protecting the safety of Hoosiers," Pence said. "Today, Indiana mourns the loss of a true Hoosier hero. On behalf of the state, the First Lady and I extend our condolences to his family and friends and hold them in prayer during this difficult time."
Our condolences to the Middlebrook Family & Friends, the New Carlisle Fire Department and to all affected by Assistant Fire Chief Jamie Middlebrook's passing.
To date, 54 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2014. Year-to-date monthly and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) Fatality Notices page.
(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)
